Here’s the situation. You have spent half of your waking hours writing your novel. You are eager to have this novel published to literary success. You have tried the traditional route of contacting the big New York publishers only to come up without a publishing contract and wasted time. The thought of self publishing appears to be the way to go with your manuscript.

You excitedly research the industry of self publishing and self publishing companies. You are ready to send your manuscript for an evaluation and expect that it is ready for printing. Wait! Have you thoroughly revised, edited, and proofread your manuscript? “Of course!” you say. You even have the seal of approval from your writing critique group. You feel you are ready to self publish. Seriously consider having a professional editor critique and edit your manuscript before you send it off to be printed through your self publisher.

A professional editor can bring the valuable insight that you need for your manuscript. Professional editors have the experience and eye for crafting not just a good story, but an exciting, best seller. Professional editors may also be termed “book coaches” and “critique services”. No matter the term, an outside editor can provide the much needed constructive criticism that will make your self publishing venture a success.

Professional editors are not free and the cost can range from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars. Do not be scared away by the cost. It is imperative that you find a reputable professional editor or critique service to critique your manuscript before self publishing. You can find reputable self publishers through professional writing associations and word of mouth. The self publishing company you partner with may also provide access to professional editors.

Self publishing is not a solo venture. Seek out professional editors to ensure that your book is the best it can be. The investment in a professional editor will help you avoid typos, weak story lines, and confusing passages that may make a reader close your book in disappointment.